This past weekend, I had the honor and privilege of being a speaker at the 4th Annual Sue Knost Memorial Conference, hosted by the Capital District Civil War Round Table (Albany, NY).

Before this weekend, I had not heard of Sue Knost. I did not know who she was, why she was important, or why the conference had been named after her.

Now, I do know. And what an incredible honor it is to have been involved in even the tiniest part of an event to honor her.

Part of the CDCWRT’s “hospitality package” given to me as a speaker, was a beautiful memorial postal cover, with an image of Sue Knost, and a special cancellation mark. Along with it came a full page explanation of who she was, and why she would always be honored by this organization.

She was deeply involved in the Capital District Civil War Round Table, serving in several roles as an officer. It was said “her trips to Civil War battlefields were legendary, not only in scope and depth with superb guides, but in culinary delight and value.” But her true legacy was as a preservationist, as commemorated on the special postal cover.

She worked for the U.S. Postal Service, and in 1995, arranged for the Round Table to sell postal cachets and envelopes, in observance of the 1995 Civil War stamps. The Round Table made more than $10,000, and began their long and generous support of Civil War preservation organizations like the Civil War Trust (and its predecessors), Save Historic Antietam Foundation, and the National Park Service. Many of the CDCWRT’s contributions have been multiplied with matching funds, making an even greater impact. The CDCWRT credits Sue Knost’s “vision, talent, drive and stamina” for this success.

On November 29, 2010, Sue Knost passed away. She had been looking forward to the 150th anniversary events. It was fitting, then, that the 1st annual Sue Knost Memorial Conference sponsored by CDCWRT began during the first year of the Sesquicentennial.

It is very much a privilege to have been a part of this year’s event. I am deeply honored. And if you live anywhere within driving distance of Albany – please mark your calendars now, for next year. This is poised to become a major Civil War conference in this region, and they deserve your support. Better yet, why wait? Join their organization now, so you can get involved and enjoy more speakers between now and then.

Much thanks to the Capital District Civil War Round Table, their gracious hospitality, and to Sue Knost for her commitment, vision and legacy!